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Hey everyone! 👋 Helping a friend set up a work network recently, and thought I'd share the process in an easy-to-understand way. Let's dive in! 🌐💼
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Step 1: Secure Your Internet Connection with an ISP**
Choose a reliable ISP that suits your needs and budget. This will be the backbone of your network.
Step 2: Connect to a Managed Switch with ISP VLAN
Hook up to a managed switch using a specific VLAN from your ISP. This helps manage and prioritize your network traffic effectively.
Step 3: Fortify Security with a pfSense Server
Introducing the pfSense server, your network's guardian. Connect it to a trunk port on your switch, allowing it to handle multiple VLANs and ensuring an extra layer of security.
Step 4: Set Up VLANs on the Switch
Organize your network by setting up Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) on the switch. This ensures smoother traffic flow and enhances network security.
Step 5: Restrict ISP Traffic Through pfSense
Here's a crucial step: configure your switch to restrict ISP traffic from going anywhere other than through the pfSense server. This ensures that all incoming traffic is filtered through the pfSense firewall before reaching any devices on your network.
Step 6: Connect Access Points with VLAN Traffic
Extend your network's reach with access points connected to the switch. Each access point will handle specific VLAN traffic originating from the pfSense server.
🚀 Bonus Step: Scaling Up with VM Machines
Step 1: Create Separate VLANs for New Servers
When expanding and adding new servers or VMs, set them up on separate VLANs for better organization and security.
Step 2: Connect Servers/VMs to the Managed Switch
Plug your new servers or VMs into the managed switch, ensuring they are connected to the appropriate VLAN.
Update your pfSense configuration to accommodate the new VLANs, ensuring security measures extend to the added servers.
Remember, keep it organized, secure, and feel free to ask if you need more help! 🌐🔒
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